Sleep techniques could help erase bad memories, study finds

Sleep has long been known to have a multitude of physical and mental health benefits. From improving memory and focus to boosting mood and reducing stress, getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for overall well-being. But now, a new study suggests that sleep could also play a role in “erasing” bad memories.

Researchers from the University of Hong Kong conducted a study using a procedure called “targeted memory reactivation” (TMR) to weaken painful memories and strengthen positive ones during sleep. The findings of the study, which were published in the journal PNAS, showed promising results in altering the emotional impact of aversive memories.

In the study, participants were shown a series of “nonsense words” paired with unpleasant images before going to sleep. The following evening, they were shown half of the words paired with positive images from various categories. During non-rapid-eye-movement sleep, auditory memory cues were introduced to reactivate the positive memories.

Upon waking, the participants displayed a reduced memory of the negative images and a stronger memory of the positive ones. This suggests that reactivating newer positive memories during sleep can weaken older aversive memories, ultimately altering the emotional experiences associated with them.

Dr. Earnest Lee Murray, a board-certified neurologist, commented on the study, noting that TMR has been used in treating PTSD and other aversive memories by combining sensory cues with therapeutic interventions during sleep phases. This non-medication approach could open new doors for treating traumatic or bad memories without the risk of adverse side effects.

Dr. Alex Dimitriu, a psychiatrist and sleep medicine doctor, highlighted the fascinating nature of the study in showcasing how the brain processes memories during sleep. He emphasized that sleep serves as a form of therapy for our emotions and can significantly impact mood and anxiety levels.

While the study had some limitations, such as the difficulty in finding positive components within highly traumatic experiences, the researchers recommended further exploration into introducing positive interfering memories to effectively weaken real-life trauma memories.

Overall, the study sheds light on the potential of using TMR to suppress negative emotions and fortify positive memories, offering hope for individuals struggling with depression or trauma. Further research into the role of different sleep phases in modulating emotional memories is warranted, paving the way for innovative approaches to mental health treatment.

For more Health articles and updates, visit www.foxnews.com/health. The study was funded by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China and the National Natural Science Foundation of China, among other grants. Fox News Digital reached out to the researchers for additional insights on the study’s implications.